Monopods

A camera monopod provides fantastic stability without the bulk of a tripod. Easy to carry and lightning-fast to set up, monopods consist of just a single leg, as opposed to a tripod’s three. They are fantastic for keeping heavy lenses stable, especially while panning horizontally, and many can also be used as a walking stick, making them great for hikes.

Many great monopods will also come with a ball head, allowing you to position your camera precisely as you want. There are loads of excellent brands to choose from, and different models with different features and maximum heights. Here we’ll help you sort out which monopod is right for you.

Monopods

Monopods explained

A monopod is quite simply a single leg – mono-pod – used to support a camera and make it easier to shoot at slower shutter speeds. They aren’t self-standing like tripods, and require the user to support them with a hand. However, what they lack in stability, they make up for in portability and convenience.

Monopods generally consist of a number of telescopic leg sections – usually between three and six – that can be expanded and collapsed to alter the overall height. These can be secured either with twist-style locks or flip locks. Both of these types of locks provide excellent security, so which one you prefer is really just down to personal preference!

As mentioned, monopods will also sometimes come with a head for the camera to be attached via a standard 1/4-in or 3/8-in screw mount. Sometimes the head is a simple plate where the camera sits, or it can be a ball head that allows for camera movement on multiple axes. Video monopods will tend to come with video heads, which have levers for smooth panning.

Monopod construction: aluminium, carbon fibre, magnesium alloy

Monopods can be constructed out of different materials, each with their own strengths.

Possibly the most common construction material is aluminium alloy. Lightweight, strong and durable, aluminium is highly reliable and makes for excellent camera support. Magnesium alloy is also used, and tends to come at a similar price to aluminium.

The other main construction material is carbon fibre, which is both stronger and more lightweight than aluminium. For this reason, it tends to be more expensive, and is generally seen in lightweight monopods pitched at professional and serious enthusiast photographers and videographers.

Monopod brands

There are more great brands than we can list here! But here are the main players and what to expect from each one.

A British manufacturer, 3-Legged Thing makes monopods from aircraft-grade aluminium and magnesium alloy! Its products are seriously tough, and can hold a huge amount of kit – ideal for those rocking heavier cameras and lenses.

Benro offers a range of monopods that are great for day-trippers and adventurers. With a mix of carbon fibre and aluminium products the manufacturer has models for all budgets, as well as video kits designed for agile, lightweight setups.

Gitzo makes premium accessories for serious enthusiast and professional photographers, and its monopods are outstanding. Constructed exclusively from carbon fibre, Gitzo products are designed to provide total gear support even for heavy setups. They also come with handy extra features like wrist straps for extra security.

Possibly the biggest name in camera supports, Manfrotto’s trusted Italian accessories are a mainstay of photographers and videographers everywhere. Superb accessories like the Manfrotto Element MII Aluminium Monopod offer premium quality at affordable prices.

Vanguard’s monopods are immediately distinctive thanks to their tri-feet, which help provide extra stability and allow for leaning to create different shooting angles. Sturdily built and able to take plenty of kit, Vanguard are useful for all different types of photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are monopods used for?

At a basic level, they are simply a camera support. But there are plenty of more specific uses for having a camera support less bulky than a tripod – it’s easier to carry, and quicker to set up in a rapidly unfolding shooting situation. They can also be taken to busy tourist hotspots where tripods are sometimes forbidden. You’ll often see them at the side of racing events, where mobility is prized over total stability.

Are monopods useful for video?

Yes – though it’s recommended you get one with a dedicated video head. This will make it easier to make smooth camera movements, especially horizontal panning ones.

Are monopods allowed on aeroplanes?

Yes. While rules will differ between different airlines so it’s always worth checking, in general, monopods are fine to take on aeroplanes, either in checked baggage or carry-on luggage.

Do monopods really help with photography?

Yes! While they don’t provide the same rock-solid stability as a tripod, a monopod can give you that bit of extra support that can mean the difference between missing a shot and nailing it. If you’d like to see one in person and try one out before making up your mind, you can always visit one of our stores – head to our store finder to find your closest location.